All proceeds from the 2018 Emerald Ball support programs and services for those in need in Collier County. Catholic Charities of Collier County impacts approximately 15,000 individuals and families every year regardless of race, nationality or creed.

Catholic Charities of Collier County has been providing services to those in need since 1968. We have received the top four star rating from Charity Navigator for our exceptional management of our donor funds.

We provide services in four locations in Collier County: 1) The Judy Sullivan Family Resource Center in East Naples; 2) Mental Health Counseling Services in Golden Gate; 3) Golden Gate Senior Center, and 4) Guadalupe Social Services in Immokalee.

Some of our programs include:

Weekend Power Pack Food for Hungry Children in Naples

It’s hard to believe that there are hungry children in Naples! But we partner with 2 elementary schools in Naples to provide food for 250 hungry, homeless children to eat over the weekend. The children are eligible for free breakfast and lunch during the week, but are hungry over the weekend.

Casa Maria Soup Kitchen in Immokalee

We serve a hot lunch to migrant workers and their families from our soup kitchen in Immokalee. Last year we served 19,000 meals! For many, it’s their only meal of the day.

Mental Health Counseling

We provide non-denominational mental health counseling to children, adolescents and adults, in English and in Spanish, to address issues such as anxiety and depression, anger, sexual abuse, and relational difficulties. Services are available on a sliding fee scale, and most of our clients are experiencing economic hardships.

Choice Food Pantry

Our choice food pantry in Naples allows a more dignified way for our clients to “shop” for their food items, choosing food they know their family will enjoy.

Empowerment Program

Our program helps clients to reach self-sufficiency through case management to identify and remove barriers to full time employment. We provide English classes, child care scholarships, bus passes and gas cards, along with partnerships with Career Source and Dress for Success to help our clients reach self-sustainability.